Annealing is a modification method that can improve the physicochemical properties of starch. The effect of moisture content (MC) and time (t) on the physicochemical properties of ulluco starch obtained by annealing (ANN) modification was studied.The results showed the ulluco-modified starches improved physicochemical properties such as solubility, water-holding capacity (WHC), oil-holding capacity (OHC), pasting properties, and the texture of the gel formed. Furthermore, the ordered structure and granules shape of starches were not significantly affected by the ANN modification. Regarding the influence of the process parameters on the properties of the modified starches, MC was the one that influenced the most, followed by t.The ANN treatment applied to ulluco starch proved to be an efficient, low cost, and green method for improving its physicochemical properties. This study showed that the native and physically modified ulluco starch is an industrial alternative to starches obtained from traditional crops, contributing to food security. Novelty impact statement:Annealing is a physical method used to modify starch that can improve the physicochemical characteristics of the material. It is also a low-cost and environmentally friendly method. The modification of starches is an alternative to add value to different crops.

This work aimed to evaluate the use of annealing (ANN) ulluco starch in the preparation of biodegradable films and its impact on the physicochemical properties of the materials. Three film samples (FS1, FS2, and FS3) were prepared at a fixed starch concentration (2.6% w/v) using glycerol as a plasticizer and then compared to a control sample (FSC) prepared with native ulluco starch. The physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of the films were evaluated. The use of ANN starch decreased the solubility (from 21.8% to 19.5%) and the swelling power (from 299% to 153%) of the film samples. In addition, an increase in opacity and relative crystallinity (from 7.54% to 10.5%) were observed. Regarding the thermal properties, all the samples presented high stability to degradation, with degradation temperatures above 200 °C. However, the samples showed deficiencies in their morphology, which affected the barrier properties. The use of ANN starch has some advantages over native starch in preparing films. However, more analysis is needed to improve the barrier properties of the materials. This work reveals the potential of the ANN ulluco starch for biodegradable film preparation. In addition, the use of modified ulluco starch is an alternative to add value to the crop, as well as to replace non-biodegradable materials used in the preparation of packaging.